DAY ONE: Iconic Views & Intimate Vibes
Morning
Begin your 48 hours in Paris layover with a sunrise stroll to the Eiffel Tower — it’s a must-see for a reason. Early mornings offer fewer crowds and a golden glow that flatters both the skyline and your camera roll. Stop at Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, two of the most famous cafés in Paris, both rich in literary history and ideal for your first café crème.
Late Morning
Wander through the city toward the Galerie Dior, an essential stop for fashion enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. This immersive museum showcases haute couture, design, and Parisian artistry in a way that’s both elegant and unforgettable.
⚠️ Tip: Tickets often sell out weeks in advance. If you haven’t pre-booked online, you can queue on the left for same-day entry (if not too busy). I brought a friend without a ticket — they joined the line with me after purchasing on the spot.
Lunch
Dine with style at Gigi Rigolatto, a rooftop Italian gem with panoramic Eiffel Tower views. Expect truffle pasta, rosé, and lively yet refined ambiance. Bonus: it’s pet-friendly (see our adorable lunch neighbour below). Live music by a singer and guitarist adds to the charm without being overwhelming.
The lift is slow, so arrive early to make your reservation on time. It’s a Paris Fashion Week hotspot — celeb sightings possible!
Why Gigi Rigolatto is Special:
Located in the exclusive Golden Triangle, Gigi brings the heart of Milan to Paris. The menu features authentic Italian dishes made with top-quality ingredients, perfect aperitivos, and stylish décor. Downstairs, you’ll find the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, adding to its cultural charm.
Afternoon
Dive into the art world with a visit to the Musée d’Orsay, known for its Impressionist masterpieces inside a beautifully restored train station. Or explore the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa and countless legendary works. Time permitting, you can do both — just focus on your must-see exhibits.
📷 The Monet collection was a personal highlight — one of the most enjoyable museum experiences I’ve had.
Evening
Dine at Bistro des Lettres, a cozy spot in the Latin Quarter offering elevated French classics with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, ideal for solo travellers or groups.
✨ Unique Touch: Write a letter to your future self, and the restaurant will mail it to you in a year — a beautiful reminder of your time in Paris.
Optional Nightcap
Finish the night at a jazz bar in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Sultry saxophones, vintage ambiance, and timeless charm await.
🎷 Make a reservation if you have a particular spot in mind.
Try: Chez Papa Jazz Club
DAY TWO: Culture, Curiosities & River Magic
Morning
Begin day two at newly restored Notre-Dame Cathedral. Although under restoration, its Gothic grandeur still stuns. Walk along the River Seine, browse the green bouquinistes bookstalls, and savour the calm.
🎟️ Entry is free, but you can reserve a time slot online to reduce waiting. Book your reservation time here.
Late Morning
Head to Le Marais for boutique shopping, chic patisseries, and eclectic design stores. If it’s a Sunday, swap plans and visit Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris’ most famous flea market, packed with antiques and hidden treasures.
Lunch
Take a café break at Le Nemours, a Parisian icon located between the Louvre and Palais-Royal Gardens. Its terrace under the Place Colette columns is ideal for people-watching and soaking up the city’s rhythm.
🍴 Expect homemade brasserie fare, a timeless Parisian vibe, and a freshly renovated interior by designer Michael Malapert.
Why Visit Le Nemours:
Beloved by creatives, politicians, and fashion insiders, it’s a meeting point for those who love Paris’ spirit and elegance. The café blends classic décor with contemporary touches, offering nonstop service for busy travelers.
Afternoon
Sail into the afternoon with a Seine River Cruise. Late-day light bathes the bridges and monuments in a golden hue — the perfect closing scene to your Paris story.
Evening
For your final dinner, try Cafe Latin in the heart of the Latin Quarter or discover a hidden wine bar in Montmartre or Le Marais. Who knows? You might stumble into a speakeasy, sip smoky cocktails, or dance under vintage chandeliers thinking: Just one more night in Paris…
✈️ Flight Crew Tips
- 👟 Pack stylish but comfortable shoes for long walks.
- 🎟️ Pre-book Dior and museum tickets during peak seasons.
- 🧣 Carry a scarf — it adds flair and doubles as warmth.
- 🗺️ Leave room for spontaneity — Paris always has surprises.
